Top 3-Week Itineraries for a Perfect Tour of Europe : T AND TB

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 3, 2020

Have you ever wondered what destruction happens to a city or region post a nuclear radiation accident? Are you aware of the Chernobyl Plant and Pripyat city, the site of the nuclear accident situated in the erstwhile USSR? Did you know that there are countless documentaries and movies been made about the Chernobyl disaster? There are countless stories and myths, which abound about Chernobyl. While some say that it was just an accident at a nuclear plant, others point to a warring country being responsible for executing the same. The nuclear accident at Chernobyl happened in the erstwhile USSR era. This was roughly around the same time when the Cold War was raging between Communist USSR and the Western Capitalist world. The stories, myths, controversies have made Chernobyl somewhat of an urban legend. Chernobyl has become so famous that it has been featured in a Netflix series. It has also started attracting audiences and tourists from all over the world, who want to see one of the most significant remnants of our modern history. An Introduction to Pripyat, the city surrounding Chernobyl Visiting Pripyat today we could only imagine that it was a city of opportunity, where almost every resident had a prestigious job and a promising future. This city is located on the Pripyat River, 3 kilometers from the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, has been prosperous and advanced since its foundation. Until April 26, 1986, when the explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant forced more than 300 thousand people to leave their homes due to the threat of radiation. This is how the exclusion zone appeared – an area of 2,600 square kilometers, free of people. Before the Chernobyl incident, Pripyat was one of the most economically developed and bustling cities of the USSR. The trade, commerce, and lifestyle of the people were as good as it could get under a Communist regime. Culturally, Pripyat embodied the best of the USSR. The Chernobyl accident was a major turning point in the fortunes of the city and its inhabitants. The Problems faced by Inhabitants of Pripyat after the Chernobyl Accident Many inhabitants were forced to shift to government camps and medical facilities. They were monitored for radiation and many also faced isolation and therapy. Even after the nuclear winter ended, traces of radiation were found in water, soil, etc. The government could not ever settle inhabitants in the city. Many were forced to migrate thousands of miles to different regions, often starting from scratch. The accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant changed hundreds of thousands of destinies, caused enormous economic damage, and a crushing blow to the nuclear industry. In the shortest possible time, the whole city was to be empty, people were not allowed to take anything except documents. Visiting Pripyat now, we can see how much pain it was for people to leave in a hurry all their property acquired over the years. As Pripyat was a bustling center of trade and commerce, you can still see so many markets, big complexes, theatres, and auditoriums. Many historians have stated that Pripyat was as rich and powerful as Moscow was. However, after the accident, there was just chaos and destruction as far as the eye could see. How Chernobyl looks like today? Here is what you can expect if you visit Chernobyl today Visiting Chernobyltoday is like returning to the distant Soviet Union. Here you can still see elements of communist propaganda, personal belongings scattered on the streets, and abandoned buildings. The hammer and sickle adorn the lanterns on the eve of the May holidays, which were not destined to take place. Toys are scattered across the schoolyard, abandoned by children in the confusion. The clock in the city shows 11:55 – the time of the power outage. Visiting Chernobyl safe is possible with the help of the professional guides, who know all the impressive but at the same time safe places of the abandoned city. Chernobyl visit is available in several options: One-day tour (Includes 27 top locations, lasts for 11 hours including comfortable bus. The price is from 35 euro per person) Two-day tour (Includes 57 top locations, lasts for 36 hours including top comfortable bus. The price is from 95 euro per person) Private tour (No restrictions on the number of locations, no limitation on hours – one, two, or even five days in Chernobyl) Present-day Chernobyl: What is happening? Whatever tour you choose Chernobyl visit will give you an opportunity to see how nature conquers human error. Pripyat turns into a forest. Houses begin to collapse, asphalt turns into moss, houses grow into trees, wide avenues disappear. Visiting Pripyat, it will be interesting to see: Shelter "Sarcophagus". It covers the destroyed Unit 4 to protect the environment from continued exposure to radiation. The Exclusion Zone. Excursions along this area are conducted with visits to local "attractions", museums, and communication with self-settlers. Amusement Park. The official opening of the amusement park was planned for May 1, 1986. Red Forest. It has absorbed a huge dose of radioactive dust. Most of the trees died, and the survivors took on a rusty hue. The Bridge of Death. The townspeople came here to see the burning reactor, not knowing that the radiation level here was one of the highest in the city. Over the past decade, hundreds of thousands of tourists made a visit to Chernobyl and Pripyat. But, believe me, the emotions that you feel when you find yourself in this city cannot be compared with anything. The Final Word If you are someone who is fascinated by Cold War history or seeing the height of Communist Power in the USSR, you will love Chernobyl. Even though the city and the region lie in ruins, there is a quaint romance about the place. Describing how you would feel after visiting Chernobyl is something that even the best travel writers cannot do. Part of the reason is that Chernobyl and Pripyat remain one of those rare places on Earth, which can still give you goosebumps. You have a city, without inhabitants, you have markets without shoppers, and you have buildings without owners. Read Also: 10 Best Places To Visit In Europe Top Places To Visit In Italy On Your Next Travel Escapade

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 14, 2017

When it comes to Europe, there are scores of awesome European destinations one can travel to. The vast continent holds such charm and enigma that tourists can’t help but make plans of backpacking through it. And with air travel so cheap these days, absolutely anyone and everyone can book cheap flights these days. But before you decide to venture into Europe, read on to know about a few very popular places which have been adversely affected by tourism. It’s not just all tourism, it’s the overzealous and intrusive type of tourism which these places are fed up of. Many have even put up quite a few restrictions on visiting tourists. Even if you’re not the pesky kind of tourist, you will still be counted among them and more likely than not, be frowned upon. So make sure you go through the following list of places before you embark on that European trip. 5 European Destinations Negatively Impacted By ‘Over-Tourism: 1. Barcelona: The residents of Barcelona in Spain have been so fed up of tourists that there is now a group called Arran which indulges in violence against visitors to the scenic place. The anti-tourist group is known to have broken windshields of vehicles and hotels the tourists are using, and there have also been instance s of them slashing the tyres of tourist cars. There was a demonstration held a while back where they displayed placards which said that Barcelona wasn’t for sale. If you still want a Spanish getaway, then Valencia is a better alternative within the same country. Or you could head to Prague in the Czech Republic. Rabat in Morocco is a great alternative as well. 2. Rome: After a huge public outcry about the behavior of tourists around the famous landmarks of Rome, the mayor had to issue a tough decree. According to the diktat, tourists will be fined if they are found picnicking on the pedestals of Rome’s famous Trevi Fountain or even if found paddling in it. The Italian culture minister even suggested that the number of tourists visiting the 51 World Heritage Sites in Rome be limited. These epic landmarks are what make up the incredible history of Rome and the utmost care must be taken by tourists to not litter the area. Much of these similar problems are being faced by Milan as well which has gone so far as to even ban the selfie stick. If you do land up in Rome, have respect for the local sentiments and take care not to insult these historical monuments. 3. Venice: The scenic locale of Venice is way past its breaking point when it comes to tolerating the ill effects of tourism. Millions head to Venice each year taking with them cruise ships and terrible pollution. While there are scores of tourist establishments in Venice, there is only a handful which caters to non-tourists. There are just about two theaters left in this once-bustling magnificent city. While Venice is a popular destination to head to with your beloved, you could alternatively head to other equally charming locales such as Pompeii, Lake Iseo, and Procida. There is also the offbeat Alleppy in Kerala which is called Venice of the East, and with good reason, which you could visit. 4. Amsterdam: Awesome Amsterdam has so much going for it that it has remained one of the topmost favorite places to visit in the world. This colorful cosmopolitan paradise has been uniquely designed in a way which lets you explore all possible corners of the place by setting out on foot or a bicycle. The city is famous for its relaxed rules and this is what is causing part of the tourist problem Amsterdam is facing. While it was once a breeze to walk through the city, there are now humongous crowds all over making it difficult to move around in the city. The tourist numbers have doubled and tripled in recent years, leading to talks about tackling the large masses arriving in Amsterdam. So caution is advised if you are planning to visit the ever-popular Amsterdam. 5. Iceland: Set in the northern European mainland, Iceland is one of the most stunning places in the world. Seemingly a world of its own, the place is full of the spectacular landscape which isn’t found elsewhere. Its scenic beauty and the low cost of air travel in the modern age have taken tourism in Iceland to unimaginable heights. But over-tourism has also negatively impacted the stunning locale of Iceland. It was once a predominantly fishing-driven economy but is no more so. Part of the problem is the ever-increasing tourist infrastructure, a lack of trained tourism professionals, as well as tourists who aren’t aware of how they are badly affecting Iceland’s fragile ecosystem. While it is still a beautiful place to visit, it is advisable to be respectful of the region’s core values and not ruin any of its stunning monuments, landmarks, and natural beauty. Description: Before you decide to pack your bags and head to Europe, here are a few very popular places on the continent which have been adversely affected by over-tourism. Indian Eagle is a thriving travel company in the online travel booking niche. We are on a mission to make air travel cheaper and easier. Everyone, irrespective of the travel class, expects the lowest airfare and the cheapest flight which we make sure through our association with major airlines. Indian Eagle is committed to offering the best airfare deals. Read  More : Planning A Hunting Trip To Africa – Here’s what you should Know Tips For Improving Your Holiday Experience The Easy Way to Travel in India    

BY  Abdul Aziz Mar 14, 2023

If you are a high net-worth person searching for the best country to live, study, and invest in the European Union, the solution is to acquire the France Golden Visa. In 2016, France witnessed a venture capital investment of 2.6 billion USD. By offering such visas, France intends to entice the new generation into world-leading companies, generate jobs, and promote innovation in the French economy. One of the reputed organizations that offer France Golden Visa services is Pearl Lemon Visa. It assures you of a hassle-free and speedy application process. 3 Types Of Golden Visas In France Based on its economic activities, France renders three varieties of Golden Visas: Economic Residence Permitting:  This had a minimum investment of 10 million euros. In 2016, these visas were closed and replaced by Talent Passports. Economic Residence Permitting is a program implemented by the French government to allow non-European Union citizens who invest in or start a business in France to obtain a long-term residence permit. This program is designed to encourage foreign investment and stimulate economic growth in France. To be eligible for an Economic Residence Permit, an individual must invest in a French business, create a business in France, or acquire an existing business. The investment must meet certain criteria, such as creating jobs, contributing to the French economy, and being a viable business plan. Read Also: What You Need To Know Before Going On A Trip To Las Vegas Advantages Of Having This Visa Economic residence permits allow investors and entrepreneurs to start or expand their businesses in the host country. This can create new job opportunities and contribute to the economic growth of the country. Economic residence permits provide foreign investors and entrepreneurs with access to a large market, which can help them grow their businesses more quickly than they would be able to in their home countries. Economic residence permits often allow for a long-term stay in the host country, which provides investors and entrepreneurs with stability and allows them to fully immerse themselves in the local business environment. Even the applicant’s families can get the benefits of these visas. The French Tech Visa This is for entrepreneurs and startups. The French Tech Visa is a program designed by the French government to attract talented foreign entrepreneurs, investors, and startup employees to France. It is a fast-track program that aims to facilitate the arrival and residence of these individuals in France to help them build their businesses and develop their skills. In 2017, the nation launched this visa type. The main intention was to entice investors, employees, entrepreneurs, and another technical talent. It facilitated the advent and integration of such individuals. When Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, declared the commencement of this visa, he revealed that the goal of this visa was to make France the center of entrepreneurship and innovation. He commented that France must be a leader in these domains, specifically regarding issues such as Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, and the convergence of clean technology, digital technology, and all Green technologies. Advantages Of Having This Visa The applicant has to apply to the Ministry of Finance (the French Tech team). Then, this team provides a letter of approval indicating eligibility for a priority procedure. The applicant has to fulfill the following conditions while applying for the visa. You should have financial resources that are the minimum as the French annual minimum wage of 18,000 euros on January 1, 2018. You need to have an economically innovative startup project that could be implemented in France. Your application had to be approved by a French public organization named ‘Direccte.’ The French Tech Visa application process is streamlined and simplified, making it easier for foreign tech talent to apply for and obtain a visa to live and work in France. Once you have submitted your French Tech Visa application, it will be processed within four weeks, which is much faster than other types of visas. The Talent Passport Scheme This has a minimum investment of 0.3 million euros. The Talent Passport Scheme is a program initiated by the French government to attract highly skilled workers from non-European countries to work and live in France. The scheme aims to address skills shortages in certain sectors by facilitating the entry and residence of these workers in France. The Talent Passport Scheme is open to applicants with skills in one of 10 targeted sectors, including engineering, science, technology, and culture. Applicants must also have a job offer or work contract from a French company, and their annual salary must meet a certain threshold. Advantages Of Having This Scheme This scheme was pertinent to 10 categories, including investors of projects, leaders of innovations, company creators, recent graduates, highly skilled workers, and employees of novel, innovative organizations. When these schemes were being designed, the investment limit was reduced from 10 million Euros to 0.3 million Euros. Another change was that the limit of generating or maintaining a minimum of 50 jobs was substituted by a general requirement of creating, retaining, and committing to retain jobs during the four years after you invest in France. The investor and family members are provided a 4-year residency card. This scheme is different from another multi-annual residence, which is permitted in that it permits nationals of third-country countries with a long-stay visa to come to France. After their advent in France, they can request the Talent Passport residence permit. After this permit process, the third-country citizen can work in the investment project’s framework that justifies the grant of the Talent Passport. Now, the person can perform some activity in the business and must generate and retain jobs while the Talent Passport is valid. Wrapping Up All of these visas are convenient for entrepreneurs. Often the government terms and conditions keep changing. Before applying for the visa, ensure the present terms and conditions of the visa process. Are you thinking of applying for visas to France? Then comment back to us and let us know about your experiences. Read Also : The Business Trip Tips And Diet 7 Key points Remember while Planning Your Honeymoon Trip Planning A Hunting Trip To Africa – Here’s what you should Know